Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) President Gaurav Gogoi has stepped up his criticism of the ruling BJP government over the ongoing Assam eviction drives.
Speaking on Sunday at Ban Gaon under the Boko-Chhaygaon constituency, he claimed Assam’s land is now under the grip of “Mama-Mami.”
This phrase, he explained, refers to a nexus of powerful people controlling the land and resources, allegedly displacing the poor and marginalised.
Visit Linked to Upcoming Congress Rally
Gogoi’s remarks came as he inspected preparations for an upcoming Congress rally.
The rally, set to be addressed by AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, is scheduled at Shanti Nezora Club in Ban Gaon.
The event is expected to be a significant show of strength for the Congress ahead of the Assam Assembly elections.
Gogoi claimed the BJP government has created fear among the people through eviction drives and land policies.
He alleged that many poor families are being uprooted under the guise of development.
Allegations of Land Grab
During his visit, Gogoi said:
“Land in Assam today is in the grip of ‘Mama-Mami’. Evictions are carried out not for public welfare but for vested interests.”
He accused the government of serving big corporate and political interests while ignoring the plight of ordinary citizens.
He also pointed out that evictions have become widespread under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma’s leadership.
Learn about land rights and displacement issues in India here.
Impact on Local Communities
Many residents in areas affected by Assam eviction drives have voiced distress over losing homes and livelihoods.
Critics argue that the drives often lack proper rehabilitation measures.
People who have lived on the land for decades suddenly find themselves homeless, with no alternative arrangements.
Local farmers, daily wage earners, and indigenous communities have reportedly been among the worst affected.
A local resident said:
“We are not against development. But where will we go after losing our land?”
Congress Vows to Fight Back
Gaurav Gogoi promised that the Congress would continue to highlight these issues.
He said the party plans to raise the matter not only in Assam but also at the national level.
Also, he claimed Rahul Gandhi’s visit would energise party workers and help expose the BJP’s alleged anti-people policies.
Gogoi insisted that land rights are at the core of people’s dignity and survival.
He accused the BJP of trying to silence dissent by labelling critics as anti-national.
BJP Defends Eviction Policy
Meanwhile, BJP leaders have defended the eviction operations.
They argue the drives are necessary to reclaim government and forest land encroached illegally. Moreover, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has repeatedly said the government is committed to protecting land for indigenous communities.
He insists that encroachers cannot be allowed to settle on government property indefinitely.
A BJP spokesperson said:
“The Congress has no moral right to talk about evictions. Many of these issues were created during their rule.”
Political Temperature Rising
With elections on the horizon, the Assam eviction drives have become a key political issue.
Congress leaders believe the government’s aggressive stance is alienating the common man. BJP, however, remains firm that the evictions are part of restoring law and order and preserving the rights of indigenous people.
Observers predict that land and identity issues will play a decisive role in the upcoming polls.
People Caught in the Crossfire
As political parties trade accusations, ordinary people remain trapped in uncertainty.
Families facing eviction continue to appeal for fair compensation and rehabilitation.
Many say they want development, but not at the cost of losing their only shelter.
Gogoi Urges Public to Speak Up
Gaurav Gogoi urged people not to be afraid to raise their voices.
He said:
“This fight is for our land, our homes, and our future.”
He added that Congress would stand with the people to ensure justice.
As Assam gears up for a busy political season, all eyes are now on how these issues unfold.
The debate around Assam eviction drives seems set to dominate the discourse, becoming a crucial factor in the state’s political future.